Best Campgrounds near Boulevard, CA

Boulevard, California serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in eastern San Diego County, with options ranging from primitive sites to full-service RV parks. The area includes the Boulevard/Cleveland National Forest KOA Holiday campground with 150 sites offering amenities for tent campers, RV users, and cabin stays. Lake Morena County Park, approximately 10 miles northwest of Boulevard, provides boat-in access, cabins, and glamping opportunities alongside traditional camping areas. Several campgrounds in the Cleveland National Forest, including Burnt Rancheria and Cibbets Flat, offer a more rustic experience with varying levels of amenities and seasonal availability.

Access to camping areas near Boulevard varies significantly with elevation and season. Many campgrounds in the Laguna Mountains operate seasonally, with Burnt Rancheria typically open from May through October. The region experiences dramatic temperature variations, with mountain areas providing relief from summer desert heat while requiring preparation for potential winter snow. Primitive camping in nearby Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers year-round options but demands careful planning for extreme heat conditions. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, particularly in canyon areas and remote desert locations. A visitor commented, "The Trail is a 7.5 mile out and back trail near Morena Village. There are great views over the Lake Morena area and the desert as you climb. At 4,657 feet, it is a continuous climb, so don't forget to take plenty of water!"

Campers report high satisfaction with the region's diverse landscapes, from pine-covered mountains to expansive desert vistas. The mixed-use campgrounds in the area accommodate various outdoor activities, with many sites providing access to hiking trails, including segments of the Pacific Crest Trail. Lake Morena County Park receives positive reviews for its combination of water recreation and camping facilities. A review noted, "Lake Morena is an awesome place to stay. This was our first campsite during our PCT thru hike, approximately 20 miles from the Mexico border via the trail." Developed campgrounds like Burnt Rancheria offer amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while more remote areas provide solitude and stargazing opportunities. The region's proximity to both mountain and desert environments creates unique camping experiences within relatively short driving distances.

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Best Camping Sites Near Boulevard, California (139)

    1. Burnt Rancheria Campground

    23 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-0120

    $35 / night

    "I love this campground because it's woodsy and close to home.  You get that far away feel without being too far away. "

    "We had hosts that were helpful, friendly, the restrooms were stocked/clean, they brought firewood around, and were just good people."

    2. Lake Morena County Park

    15 Reviews
    Campo, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 565-3600

    $24 - $34 / night

    "Lake Morena is an awesome place to stay. This was our first campsite during our PCT thru hike, approximately 20 miles from the Mexico border via the trail."

    "The campground at Lake Morena has around 80+ spots that range from hookups for RV to basic tent camping. There's a indoor entertainment room and multiple bathrooms."

    3. El Prado Campground

    22 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-2082

    $35 / night

    "This is the closest campground to the lakes. Just a couple steps away from the beautiful meadow it overlooks. Lots of trees for hammocking!!"

    "It is a big, big campground that is wooded and adjacent a large meadow, recreational area and lake (when not dried out, drought sucks)."

    4. BOULEVARD / CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST KOA HOLIDAY

    4 Reviews
    Boulevard, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 766-4480

    $75 - $85 / night

    "It’s off the beaten path of I-8. To get here you take some very windy roads, bigger rigs will take up most the road. Almost all sites are back-in with little site definition."

    "It’s a bit off the beaten path, but it’s a beautiful part of San Diego county.

    Amenities include a mini petting Zoo and things like a hayride in warmer weather."

    5. Agua Caliente County Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-1188

    $29 - $75 / night

    "A lot of RVs are in the center and seem set up as full-timers, but along the perimeter are some great, tucked-away sites.  There are also a number of "cabins" in a row. "

    "Waking up to a gathering of big horn sheep atop a ridge with a bright colorful sunrise set behind as backdrop as they stand there stoic against it all, was by far one my favorite ways to wake up ever!"

    6. Cibbets Flat Campground

    6 Reviews
    Pine Valley, CA
    12 miles
    Website

    "Such a great little campground tuck away from the rest. First coke first serve basis. Pit toilet (extremely clean). Running water. Plenty of huge shaded sites. Awesome night sky viewing as well."

    "Awesome campsite with a cute little river tucked away. There was plenty of flat ground for our tent and Jeep. It was a really nice spot to spend the whole day at as well."

    7. San Diego County Lake Morena County Park

    8 Reviews
    Campo, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 579-4101

    $24 / night

    " The Lake Morena campground is well-kept and relaxing. It has a variety of sites including full-hookup, partial hookup, and tent only."

    "The views of the lakes and mountains are breathtaking. Lots of wildlife to see. Bobcats, deer, quail, rabbits and wild turkeys. Good internet if on Verizon network"

    8. Bow Willow Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    5 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 767-5311

    "We set up quickly and enjoyed ourselves a walk around the site. Not too many trailheads around and it was very hot and dry but we enjoyed it."

    9. KOA Boulevard

    1 Review
    Boulevard, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 766-4480

    $45 - $110 / night

    10. Boulder Oaks Eqst

    4 Reviews
    Campo, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 445-6235

    $20 - $50 / night

    "Found this spot after being turned away from lake Moreno campgrounds. Plenty of room for our trailer and enough space between sites to feel like we were alone out here."

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Recent Reviews near Boulevard, CA

765 Reviews of 139 Boulevard Campgrounds


  • L
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Sunbeam Lake RV Resort

    A really nice little place.

    Great place. Was able to get a last minute spot when we were about an hour away. Office people were nice and friendly. Place was clean with lots to do.

  • Kai K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    Loved The Off-Roading and Beautiful Views

    Loved how much road there was to explore. We went about 2 hours deep into this area and there was still more to explore. The best part here was the stars, so stunning. Be careful in the summer as it is very hot during the day.

  • j
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lake Henshaw Resort

    My stay review

    This place is pretty. The staff is nice and not too strict. The place can definitely need a lil tlc but for the price per dayits nothing too complain too much. The pool is cool the showers and bathroom are all functional. Wich is a good thing. I was told to pick any spot i liked wich made my stay even better. No hookups at all i had my rv/camper but that was no problem i took my generator. Place is definitely recommended if you're a not too picky person.😉

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Kumeyaay Lake Campground

    Perfect weekend getaway

    This campground is located in the Mission Trails Regional Park, and we absolutely loved it. There are clean bathrooms with flushable toilets and showers, and sinks to wash off things. The rangers even supplied Dr. Bronners Castile soap in each bathroom. We stayed in site number 17 and it was lovely. Each camp site has a picnic table, fire ring, and tent pad. Online says you can buy firewood but they no longer provide that service, so make sure you bring your own firewood! You can’t swim in the lake, but you can fish and it’s very pleasant to walk around and bird watch. There is so much to do in this urban park, you could spend many days here. P.S. the Mission Trails visitor center is spectacular.

  • D
    Aug. 1, 2025

    San Diego Metro KOA

    Trees are messy but creates shade.

    Spot is nice enough. Neighbors' campfires are 10 ft away from your trailer and makes your camper smell like smoke the whole next day when they start a campfire. Trees drop sticky droppings all over your camper and awning... not to mention your truck and camp site.

  • Prius P.
    Jul. 25, 2025

    Arroyo Salado Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    Great if you understand the desert

    By my standards this is not primitive you have a toilet and a fire ring. Some of the spots are flatter than others. I made it in my prius so no need for high clearance or 4X4. Great for seeing stars and the sunrise. Awesome mini canyons if you're adventurous. BRING WATER ! It's hit during the day otherwise I really enjoy this place personally

  • P
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Lake Jennings

    Beautiful and clean, but loud

    The campgrounds were clean. The staff were all friendly and helpful. The setting is quite beautiful. I’m deducting a full star because our neighbors were blasting profanity-laced music until late in the night. They also brought a TV and were loudly listening to a UFC broadcast from 6PM-10:30PM which really ruined the whole vibe. There is clearly no enforcement for noise. I hate when people blast music at campgrounds and I especially hate it since I have young kids who slept very poorly because of it. :(

  • Cassandra P.
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

    We love it

    Large parking spots and great atmosphere. The fishing lakes are and best indoor walking paths are a bonus.

  • Amber Lynn M.
    Jul. 18, 2025

    Thompson Palms Campground

    Beautiful farm!

    My family and I had an excellent time at the Thompson’s farm! We stayed a few weeks, hanging out with their cows and chickens! Their eggs are fantastic and so beautiful I almost didn’t want to crack the shells! The family is kind and great hosts, definitely contact them to spend time on their farm!


Guide to Boulevard

Campsites near Boulevard, California offer primitive to full-service camping options at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 6,000 feet. The area straddles mountain and desert environments with seasonal temperature variations of 50-90°F during summer and 30-60°F in winter months. Many sites provide access to the Pacific Crest Trail with sections connecting to both desert landscapes and pine forests.

What to do

Hike the Desert View trail: The trail connects directly from Burnt Rancheria Campground to stunning overlooks. "The Desert View hike goes right out from camp (plus the PCT), and there are many other hikes along the highway," notes Jonathan G., who appreciated the accessibility at 6,000 feet elevation.

Explore palm groves: Day hikes from Bow Willow Primitive Campground lead to natural palm oases. "Nice hike to a palm grove," reports Stephen B., who found the trails easy to access from the campground while enjoying the quiet surroundings.

Observe wildlife: Multiple camping areas offer opportunities to spot local species in their natural habitat. "We saw woodpeckers, cowbirds, bright yellow orioles, wild turkeys, and several other species right by our campsite," shares Kiana M., highlighting the bird diversity at Lake Morena.

What campers like

Night sky viewing: The remote location provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. "It's a beautiful part of San Diego county," notes Justin C. about the Boulevard KOA, adding "the facility is gated which felt like a great thing I didn't know I needed."

Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained restrooms and grounds. "Campground itself is very clean and well maintained," writes Richard W. about his stay at Burnt Rancheria, though he notes weekends can be busier than weekdays.

Pool amenities: Some developed sites provide swimming options during hot weather. "This is a great campsite to go to if you are car camping folk. They have a small camp store right outside the park, Hot Springs, the swimming pool on making great hiking in the area!" says Andy H. about Agua Caliente County Park.

What you should know

Seasonal closures: Many mountain campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Only open March to October. Very quiet during week. Busy during weekends," reports Harry C. about Burnt Rancheria, noting the PCT hiking season aligns with opening.

Water availability: Desert campgrounds may have limited or no water sources. "No water, $20 per nite with vault toilet and trash," explains Sheila S. about Bow Willow, making water planning essential for stays.

Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically by location and carrier. "Very well ran facility. It has the best drinking water pumped from mountain aquifers," says Robert H. at the Boulevard KOA, where facilities compensate for remote location challenges.

Temperature variations: "At 6,000 feet, the pine and oak trees provide great shade in almost all sites, but there's still plenty of sun," explains Jonathan G. about El Prado Campground, highlighting how elevation affects the camping experience.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Some sites include recreational facilities for children. "Events for younger kids (movie night, etc). Feel like if it was full, it would feel very crowded. Very nice playground at the lake," mentions Vic A. about Lake Morena County Park.

Cabin options: For families wanting more comfort than tent camping. "Stayed in the cabins, had a large group of people, and we all fit comfortably. Built a fire at the ring just outside of the cabin," shares Dani P. about Lake Morena County Park.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Family-friendly animal encounters enhance the experience. "Lots of wildlife to see. Bobcats, deer, quail, rabbits and wild turkeys," reports Glamper G., noting that regular ranger patrols help maintain a safe environment.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling considerations: Not all sites are suitable for all vehicles. "Most of the sites are level but some are not, but plenty of space at the sites," advises Hydro H. about Lake Morena County Park, an important factor for RV setup.

Electrical services: Power availability varies by campground section. "The electric sites offer 50, 30, or 20 amp and seem recently updated," notes Jessica M., though she found weekend privacy limited.

Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approaches. "To get here you take some very windy roads, bigger rigs will take up most the road," warns Brian B. about the Boulevard KOA, essential information for drivers of larger vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Boulevard, California camping areas?

Camping areas around Boulevard offer varying levels of amenities. Laguna Campground is well-maintained with vault toilets and beautiful meadow access. For more primitive experiences, Yaqui Well Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park provides basic facilities in a desert setting. Most established campgrounds in the area offer toilets, designated camping spaces, and access to hiking trails. Water availability varies by location, with some sites providing potable water while others require you to bring your own. Dispersed camping options like those in Anza-Borrego State Park allow more flexibility but with minimal amenities. Always check specific campground information before your trip as amenities can change seasonally.

What RV parks are available in Boulevard, California?

Boulevard and its surrounding area offer several RV park options. The BOULEVARD / CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST KOA HOLIDAY is directly in Boulevard, providing full hookups, big rig accessibility, and reservable sites. For those willing to travel a short distance, Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort offers 120 full hookup spaces with both 30 and 50 amp service. The resort is well-maintained, family-friendly, and conveniently located near downtown amenities. Both locations provide essential services for RV campers including water and toilet facilities.

Are there family-friendly campgrounds in Boulevard, CA?

Several family-friendly campgrounds are available near Boulevard. Burnt Rancheria Campground offers a woodsy atmosphere with reservable sites, giving families the security of planned trips. The campground has private-feeling sites and nearby hiking trails. Lake Morena County Park is another excellent family option about 20 miles from the Mexico border with multiple campsites that don't typically fill up quickly. The park features a lake, making it perfect for families who enjoy water activities. Both campgrounds provide toilet facilities and access to outdoor recreation suitable for children of all ages.